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Razorback quilt project set to aid back-to-school event

The Ralph Bunche Community Action Committee has one primary mission: To level the playing field for schoolchildren.
The focus of the event is the annual back-to-school picnic held at Ralph Bunche Community Park shortly before the start of the new school year. This year's event is scheduled for Aug. 4.
Oveta Pledger, president of the sponsoring organization, said funds are being raised now to be able to once again sponsor this project that has helped many, many children in the community.
"This is our 10th year to have the back-to-school picnic where children received backpacks filled with school supplies," Pledger said.
Donations currently are being taken for a quilt featuring a Razorback theme, Pledger said. She noted that the quilt will be displayed publicly at the Wally Hall Tournament that will take place Memorial Day weekend in Benton and again at the city's Fourth of July Freedom Fest, at which time the winner will be announced.
Paula Stonesifer and Pat Wade donated the quilt for the project, Pledger said. Wade made the quilt top and Stonesifer did the actual quilting.
"Though it's a queen-size quilt, it can be used on a king-size bed, but will cover just the top," Stonesifer said.
In the meantime, people may purchase donation tickets for the queen-size quilt, Pledger said, by calling her at 909-9535; Sue Shults at 249-8643; or Sherry Barker at 326-0616.
In addition to the quilt project, a flapjack fundraiser is scheduled June 30 at Applebee's in Benton. At this time, a portion of the meal prices will be donated to the back-to-school project, Pledger said.
Tickets are $7 for the event that runs from 8 to 10 a.m.
"We hope people will support the quilt project, which will help us raise needed funds," Pledger said. "You do not have to be present to win the quilt."
The quilt will be displayed at the two upcoming celebrations, Pledger noted. Booth sponsors for the two festivals are Barbara Nix and Snazzy Pizazzy.